Tragedy in Orlando

June 14, 2016

Dear Colleagues,

Following our Commencement ceremonies on Saturday came news early Sunday morning of overwhelming loss in Orlando. I am heartbroken by this senseless act of violence.

As we grieve for the victims and their family and friends, let us also stand in support of the LGBTQ community. At a time when our LGBTQ friends and colleagues are experiencing the pain of seeing their community attacked, we at Stanford Medicine need to support each other. For those wishing to access professional assistance, please reach out to the Vaden Health Center or the Faculty Staff Help Center.

Stanford Medicine condemns any and all acts of violence, including intimidation, harassment, and sexual assault. Today we mourn and comfort each other, but tomorrow we must redouble our efforts and our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where--regardless of sexual orientation, race, or religion—people can express themselves and be treated with dignity and respect.

Our students have received an invitation to join in an open dialogue on the tragedy in Orlando from 4-5 p.m. today. In addition to attending a portion of this discussion, I will also be identifying additional opportunities and forums where all members of our community can express themselves and be treated with dignity and respect.

Sincerely,

Lloyd Minor

Carl and Elizabeth Naumann Dean of the School of Medicine
Professor of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery
Professor of Bioengineering and of Neurobiology, by courtesy